Incorporating Imaging Into the Locoregional Management of Breast Cancer

Although some breast cancers present as palpable masses or with other clinical findings, many are detected at screening. Most screening is currently done with digital mammography, but high-risk patients or those with dense breast tissue may undergo additional screening examinations with magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound. Additionally, digital breast tomosynthesis, contrast-enhanced mammography, and molecular breast imaging are newer technologies available at some sites. Optimal usage of breast imaging technologies remains controversial, both in screening and diagnostic settings following a new diagnosis of breast cancer. This article will review well established and newer, alternative breast imaging technologies as well as recent data regarding their role in optimizing patient care.